Dear Lewis Families,

 The end of the year is quickly coming to an end, but there’s lots of learning yet to be done! Our students recently completed the CRCT. They have worked hard and the teachers have worked hard to master the grade level standards. Now is the time to enrich, and solidify skills students will need to be successful in their next grade level. We expect to have CRCT results the final week of the school year.

 I will take this opportunity to bid all of you a very fond farewell. My eight years as principal here have been professionally and personally rewarding. All of you know that Lewis will always hold a special place in my heart. My dreams came true when I was able to return here as principal. Having been a member of the original staff and serving as a teacher for several years, I took great pride in the spirit and culture that had been established at Lewis. I believe that during my tenure here as principal, that legacy of excellence and a love for learning has continued to grow. I am certain that under Mrs. Kee’s leadership Lewis will continue to be a shining star among Cobb County schools.

 Thank you for the support that you give to this school and your children. Continue to stay involved or commit to become more involved. The PTSA recently elected a new slate of officers. I am so proud to leave the school in the capable and qualified hands of this group of parent leaders. I hope you will rally behind them and give them your support by volunteering to do what is necessary to maintain an excellent environment for our students.

 Recently, the school district presented a draft proposal for SPLOST III. Most of you are aware that through funds provided by SPLOST II several new school buildings (McClure Middle School, Hillgrove High, Lovinggood Middle School, Allatoona High, and Pickett’s Mill Elementary) have been built to address the growing student population in West Cobb. In addition, numerous schools have had additional classrooms built to accommodate growth. Lewis received a new air-conditioned gym and a new counselors’ suite (4 offices, group meeting room, conference room, 2 classrooms). Also, the entire school district received updated technology when every computer that was older than five years was replaced. I am only mentioning a few of the projects that SPLOST II funded, but you can review the complete story at www.cobbk12.org. An excellent video clip is posted there.

 Another thing we are proud of in our school district is the fact that we were able to retire all of the school district’s debt from previous school bonds. Most importantly to many of you, no property tax increases were required to pay for any of this! The SPLOST III draft proposal lists mainly maintenance projects. As homeowners, you are aware that roofs must be replaced, heating and air systems must be maintained, and painting and flooring also need attention. (You will recall a few days in the beginning of the year when our building was without AC…) Please review the SPLOST III information for Lewis and if you have questions or comments, please contact me.

 Have a great summer!

 Fondly,

 Shelia Chesser, Principal